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As part of the °®ÎÛ´«Ã½’s continued commitment to strengthening the student experience and advancing student success, °®ÎÛ´«Ã½ President Dr. Todd G. Fritch has announced the appointment of Byron Thetford as Vice President for Student Affairs.
Established in 2025 as a standalone division, Student Affairs was created to provide centralized leadership for programs and services that support student engagement, well-being, leadership development, and campus life. The appointment removes the interim designation from Thetford’s title following a year of leadership during the division’s transition and continued growth.
Thetford will continue serving as Dean of Students and as a member of the President’s Cabinet while leading the Division of Student Affairs. He will also oversee the University’s operational partnership with Aramark Dining Services and continue serving as °®ÎÛ´«Ã½’s liaison with the YMCA, supporting partnerships and initiatives that enhance the university experience.
“Student Affairs plays a vital role in creating an environment where students can thrive both inside and outside the classroom,” Fritch said. “Byron has provided steady leadership during the establishment of the division, and his commitment to our students and the University has positioned Student Affairs for continued growth and success.”
Thetford has served the University in student affairs leadership for many years, including as Dean of Students prior to his appointment as Interim Vice President of Student Affairs in July 2025.
Throughout his career at °®ÎÛ´«Ã½, Thetford has worked to strengthen student support services, foster student engagement, and enhance opportunities that contribute to student success and campus life.
“I am honored to continue serving the °®ÎÛ´«Ã½ in this role,” Thetford said. “Our students are at the heart of everything we do, and I look forward to continuing to work alongside our faculty, staff, and campus partners to create an exceptional student experience.”